What is a hammer toe?

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

What is a hammer toe?

What’s the best treatment for my hammer toe?

The term hammer toe comes from the distinctive way in which the tip of the toe ‘hammers’ or hits the ground. Our knowledge base article on hammer toes describes the differences in the three types of hammer toes.

There are a number of different styles of hammer toes pads available on Myfootshop.com. Which one works the best? That depends on the location of your problem. Hammer toes that develop callus on the tips of the toes are best treated with products that limit the hammering. Here’s a few examples of a specific type of hammer toe pad called a crest pad (also known as a buttress pad).

These three types of crest pads are used to buttress the toe, decreasing the tendency to hammer and make the tip of the toe sore. Each of these pads are right/left specific, so be sure to select the correct foot (right or left) when checking out.

Which of these products would be the best to wear in my steel-toe work boots? Buddy

Dr. Jeffrey

Created on:11/29/2018 11:48 PM

Hey Buddy, I'm going to assume that the irritation from the boot is on the top of the toe? The pads in this post focus on irritation of the tip of the toe. Take a peek at the Gel Corn Protectors. I think that ought to work for you.Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM Medical Director Myfootshop.com

Priscilla

Created on:12/19/2018 8:01 PM

I see that there are 3 types of hammer toe crest pads. I'm looking to get some for my elderly mother. Is there one recommended over another for an older person? Are any easier to keep clean? Thanks!

Dr. Jeffrey

Created on:12/20/2018 4:25 PM

Priscilla, The choice of the most appropriate hammer toe pad all depends upon what kind of hammer toe your mom has. Problems on the tip of the toe are treated well with a crest pad where as problems on the top of the toe might better be treated with a Gel Corn Protector, a Tubular Foam Bandage or a Toe Straightener. Be sure to check your mom's toe and see exactly where it is hurting.